At-A-Glance The race for attorney general depends largely on the political aspirations of current A.G. Mike Hatch. It is unclear whether Hatch will run for another office, or seek re-election as attorney general. Since DFLer Skip Humphrey held the position, the office has become more focused on consumer issues.

The Candidates

Mike Hatch (DFL)
Hatch, who was often mentioned as a possible candidate for governor, has decided to try to keep his attorney general position. Hatch has picked up the consumer protection mantle of his predecessor, Skip Humphrey. His term was marked by investigations into the Allina Health Systems and Minnesota Public Radio. He has differed from Humphrey, however, in his assertion that money won in the settlement of the state's tobacco lawsuit is being misapportioned by the group - MPAAT - that oversees it.Education: Graduate of University of Minnesota Duluth, 1970. Bachelors degree in political science.Occupation: AttorneyBorn: 1948Personal: Married to Patti. Three daughters.AG Web site:http://www.ag.state.mn.us

Tom Kelly (GOP)
In announcing his bid, Medina attorney Tom Kelly - a Republican activist - took several
shots at the current attorney general, Mike Hatch, a Democrat.
Kelly said Hatch has used the office to further his own
political aspirations and made businesses feel unwelcome in the
state. "Minnesota needs an attorney general who is willing to go after
abuses in both the public and private sectors, without holding up a
'Not Welcome' sign to business," Kelly said.Education: Graduated from the University of Chicago Law SchoolOccupation: Private practice since 1984.Born: Dec. 6, 1958. New Rochelle, NYPersonal: Married to Claudia. Three daughters.Resides: MedinaWeb site:www.kelly2002.comE-mail:info@kelly2002.comAudio:Listen to campaign announcement